Effect of hydroxyethyl starch on platelet function following granulocyte collection using the continuous flow cell...

Area of Science:

• Hematology
• Transfusion Medicine

Background:

• Hydroxyethyl starch (HES) is utilized as a sedimenting agent in blood component collection.
• Assessing the impact of HES on platelet parameters is crucial for donor safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effect of 6% hydroxyethyl starch on platelet number and function in normal donors undergoing granulocyte collection.

Main Methods:

• Seventeen normal donors underwent granulocyte collection using a continuous flow cell separator (CFCS).
• Hydroxyethyl starch (500 ml of 6% solution) was administered as an adjunct.
• Platelet counts, adhesiveness, and aggregation (to ADP and collagen) were assessed pre- and post-collection.

Main Results:

• No clinical bleeding was observed in any donor.
• A mean 21% reduction in postcollection platelet count occurred, but all counts remained within normal limits.
• Platelet adhesiveness showed variable changes (increase, no change, or decrease).
• Platelet aggregation to ADP or collagen was largely unaffected, except in one donor.

Conclusions:

• The use of 500 ml of 6% hydroxyethyl starch as an adjunct for granulocyte separation via CFCS does not appear to adversely affect platelet number or function in normal donors.
• HES can be safely used in this context, with careful monitoring of platelet counts and function.